But if you don't have a pet to bring you, don't worry. Sunday's Pet Rally and Tail Gate Party at Lafreniere Park in Metairie will feature dozens of wonderful adoptable pets for dog and cat lovers to take home.

Matthew Hinton / The Times-PicayuneBeau Robinson, 5, gets a kiss from Dottie. Pets and families can spend the day together at Pet Fest 2009 in Lafreniere Park on Sunday, Nov. 1. "We'll have 300 dogs and cats available," Lynn Morvant, co-chair of the event, said.

Last year, more than 100 animals were adopted to forever homes at the festival.

WWL-TV news anchor and friend of animals Angela Hill will be the celebrity emcee, and the Saintsations, the Saints mascot Gumbo, the Hornets mascot Hugo, and the Zephyrs mascot Boudreaux will all be at the party. There will also be a Pet Team Spirit second line parade.

The free festival, which starts at 11 a.m. and goes until 4 p.m., will feature games for pets, AKC show and agility demonstrations and spay-neuter information, plus great food and live music.

Pet Fest 2009 will recognize Louisiana Department of Agriculture and Forestry Commissioner Mike Strain and his department and LSART (Louisiana State Animal Response Team) for their commitment to pet diaster preparation and evacuation.